FORT DRUM, N.Y. -- Children at Fort Drum are building environmental appreciation through nature classes -- one tree, animal and season at a time.
For the first time ever, 3- to 5-year-old children involved in the SKIES Unlimited program are given the opportunity to explore the natural world through activities, stories and games, during the Sharing Nature with Children class.
The first class was held earlier this month at McEwen Library. During the 45-minute session, Debbie Kennedy, Schools of Knowledge, Inspiration, Exploration and Skills instructional program specialist, talked to the children about native North Country animals.
Attendees also chatted about their favorite season, while Kennedy discussed what happens to trees during the season changes.
One of the goals of the SKIES Unlimited staff is to find appropriate activities and programs for young children, Kennedy explained.
They also want to encourage children to venture outdoors, she added.
"If we can instill a love of nature while (children) are young, they can learn to balance playing with electronics and going outside," she said.
The class also encourages parents to interact with their children in a different way than they would at home, Kennedy explained.
Children were able to bond with their parents over a craft project. Parents helped their youngsters make a tree out of paper and decorate it, according to how the tree would look during their favorite season.
Cam Ngo said she enrolled her son, Kody Cheung, as a different way for them to spend time together. Like many of the other parents who brought their children, she wants him to learn more about nature and build a better appreciation for the outdoors.
Ngo also had a special reason for bringing Kody. Since English is his second language, she continually seeks ways for Kody to interact with other children, preparing him for prekindergarten next year.
After the class, Kennedy noted that the nature program "seems promising."
She said she hopes to expand the class beyond instruction and allow the children to act out nature-themed skits.
The classes meet from 11 to 11:45 a.m. Wednesday at McEwen Library.
The Sharing Nature with Children class is just one program Fort Drum children can enjoy. SKIES Unlimited program offers a variety of classes to enhance military children's intellectual, athletic and creative abilities.
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